Gold medal approach to Olympic preparations
Report author: Nick Harbour
Community reporter for Clayton
6th December 2011
Nationally and indeed regionally the plans are well underway for the successful implementation of the 2012 Olympics. But what are we doing locally to promote and benefit from this rare opportunity?
It seems that plans are wide and varied. Local community groups are already drawing up opportunities and ideas for making this an event that will engage the community and provide some light relief in what is a very challenging economic and financial climate. Sarah Green, who represents the Hyndburn Womens Athletics Club stated "this is a really exciting time for all of us locally. The Olympic torch will be coming through Accrington and we intend to keep the spririt alive long after it has gone. We will be running a total of 100 miles across the brough with an imitation torch to raise the profile of the Olympics and to generate money for our local charities".
Not quite the real thing but it will be something equally as impressive!
And you don't just have to be active and sports minded to be getting into the Olympic spirit. Pat Pearson, chair of the Accrington Knitting Association, is encouraging residents of all ages and abilities to get involved. "We're knitting one of our biggest ever creations that we hope the Council will proudly display in a very prominant public area. I can't give too much detail away but this will be an impressive collage of everything the Olympics has to offer. If you are interested in knitting or want to support us in other ways please do get in touch. There's a role for everyone to play in this".
However, the local Councils appear to be a little less advanced in their preparations. When asked what the plans were for promoting the Olympics and encouraging greater involvement in active sport in the local area, the response was one of shock and horror. I managed to very quickly speak to Martin Simpson, Head of Leisure and Entertainment at the Council who told me that "this is something we are wanting to support but haven't yet had the time or the resources to devote to it. In the new year, we will be drafting a detailed plan of events and activities that residents can get involved in". When further questioned on what scale these events would take Mr Simpson was unable to give further comment.
So, the community are grabbing the bull by the horn and taking great strides in preparing for the events of next summer. The Council, on the other hand, are slowly warming to the opportunities that the Olympics may present.
Nick Harbour - community reporter for Clayton and keen Olympian!